Ah, Dry January… doesn’t it seem like everyone’s putting down cocktails and picking up LeCroix (why is it always Pampelmousse? And why can’t they just say grapefruit?), herbal tea, or kombucha?

Whatever sober sipping alternative anyone chooses, Dry January has become a popular reset after the indulgence of the holiday season. But what about after January? The health and savings benefits last all year. Here are a few things to consider before you stop your January teetotaling.

A toast… to drinking less

1. Drinks are expensive! 

Fact: a single drink can cost as much as a small meal. Fancy cocktails? They have fancy price tags. Even if you’re drinking at home, craft beers and wine that isn’t Boone’s Strawberry Hill can add up quickly. By cutting back, you’re freeing up some serious cash—and who doesn’t love a little extra money in their pocket?

2. Reduce SUI (shopping under the influence) incidents 

Ever notice how a few drinks can lead to ‘just one more round,’ a midnight UberEats order, or a must-have-it-but-totally-don’t-need-it online shopping binge? Reducing alcohol means less risk of impulse spending.

3. Long-Term Health Savings 

Health care costs add up—and alcohol, especially in excess, can lead to all sorts of expensive health problems. Things like liver issues, high blood pressure, or even just more frequent colds (it impacts your immune system). By drinking less, you’re protecting your long-term health (and your finances).

The health benefits you can brag about

1. Better sleep = better everything 

Sure, a nightcap might help you drift off (or pass out) faster, but the quality of sleep? Probably not so great. Alcohol disrupts sleep. So cutting back on booze means more restorative sleep, and that can improve a lot of things: your mood, energy levels, and even your skin.

2. Weight loss… without even trying

Alcohol is wiley. It’s full of empty calories, and then there’s the late-night snacking it often inspires. Swapping out those liquid calories for something lighter can make a big difference on the scale—without breaking a sweat.

3. Happier liver and heart 

You may have heard ‘it’s better to be a good liver than to have one.’ Which was a fun philosophy in your early 20s, but… your liver has to work overtime to detox when you drink alcohol. Give it a break, and it’ll thank you with better health. Less alcohol means better heart health, too—it reduces your risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular issues.

4. Improved mental health 

Alcohol might seem like it reduces stress, but it’s just a short-term fix. Cutting back can mean clearer thinking, fewer mood swings, and just an overall happier vibe.

How to keep the ‘dry’ going the rest of the year

So, you’ve survived Dry January, and you feel great. Now what? Here are some tips to keep the momentum:

  • Find your favorite mocktails: experiment with creative non-alcoholic drinks that feel as fun as the real thing. Sparkling water with fresh fruit, virgin mojitos, or alcohol-free beers and wines are all good options to check out.
  • Set realistic goals: You don’t have to go completely dry forever. Maybe it’s limiting drinks to weekends or special occasions. It’s all about finding what works for you.
  • Buddy up: Everything’s easier with a friend. Whether it’s a fellow Dry January survivor or someone just looking to cut back, having a support system can keep you motivated and accountable.
  • Track your progress: Use an app or journal to note how much money you’re saving or how much better you’re feeling. Maybe set some fun goals, like taking a vacation or trying a new restaurant once you reach a certain amount of money saved.

Cheers to a healthier, wealthier lifestyle!